Leadership Accelerator Hungary 2026
A new pilot programme supporting faith-rooted democracy actors at a moment of heightened democratic risk and responsibility.
Worldwide, and especially in Hungary, religious nationalism and the religious right have become key drivers of democratic backsliding. Religious language is increasingly used to legitimise exclusion, weaken democratic institutions, and polarise society.
To support efforts against increasing autocratisation and in favour of a pluralistic democracy, Faith in Democracy is launching its first Leadership Accelerator in Hungary in 2026.
Who the Programme Is For
The Faith in Democracy Leadership Accelerator Hungary is for people in Hungary who are rooted in faith, values, or faith communities and who want to engage publicly, responsibly, and visibly for democracy, the rule of law, and the common good.
It is designed for aspiring, emerging, and established actors, working online, offline, or across both, in public or behind the scenes, including:
- Faith and community actors, such as clergy, lay leaders, and community organisers
- Civil-society and public-facing actors, including activists, journalists, educators, organisers, and NGO professionals
- Digital and cultural actors, such as online activists, creators, influencers, and media practitioners
Programme Structure
The accelerator combines online sessions with an in-person bootcamp in Budapest in spring 2026, followed by sessions throughout the year. Its focus is practical: navigating polarised debates, responding to disinformation, engaging audiences online and offline, and sustaining civic engagement over time.
A limited number of small scholarships will be available to support participants in dedicating time to their civic and community work.
The programme is strictly non-partisan. It does not support political parties or candidates. It is grounded in the conviction that people of faith have both a responsibility and a distinctive role in standing up for democracy.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The application deadline is 7 February 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Leadership Accelerator for, and what do you mean by “faith-rooted democracy actors”?
The Faith in Democracy Leadership Accelerator Hungary is for people in Hungary and outside who are rooted in faith, values, or faith communities and who want to engage publicly, responsibly, and visibly for democracy, the rule of law, and the common good.
It is designed for aspiring, emerging, and established actors, working online, offline, or across both, in public or behind the scenes, including:
- Faith and community actors, such as clergy, lay leaders, and community organisers
- Civil-society and public-facing actors, including activists, journalists, educators, organisers, and NGO professionals
- Digital and cultural actors, such as online activists, creators, influencers, and media practitioners
We use “faith-rooted” broadly: participants may work within religious institutions or engage faith more informally through values, language, and communities as part of their civic or public engagement.
Who should not apply?
Is this programme affiliated with any political party or campaign?
What is the main focus of the accelerator?
What kinds of activities will participants take part in?
Participants will take part in skills-based workshops and lectures, peer exchange, discussions with experienced practitioners and more. The programme includes at least one in-person bootcamp, complemented by online sessions and structured cohort exchange.
How much time commitment is expected from participants?
Participants should be available for a three-day in-person bootcamp in spring 2026. In addition, there will be monthly online meetings and potentially further in-person gatherings during the year.
When does the programme start and how long does it run?
The programme begins once acceptance letters are issued and runs until 20 January 2027.
Where will the in-person bootcamp take place?
The bootcamp will take place in Budapest. Further logistical details will be shared with selected participants.
In which language will the programme be conducted?
The primary working language is English. If English is a barrier, we encourage interested applicants to reach out by email to discuss possible accommodations.
Do participants need to be publicly visible or outspoken?
No. Not all civic engagement happens publicly. We take security, privacy, and personal context seriously. Participants may engage in ways that are appropriate and safe for them, including low-visibility or behind-the-scenes roles. Public statements or exposure will not be required.
Are scholarships or stipends available?
Yes. A limited number of small scholarships are available to support participants’ work. Admission to the accelerator is decided independently of scholarships. Applicants may be admitted with or without financial support. Scholarships are need-blind and assessed separately after programme admission.
How many participants will be selected?
How does the application and selection process work?
Applications are submitted through an online form and reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to a brief conversation or interview. The application deadline is 7 February 2026. All applicants will be informed of the outcome by 15 February 2026.
What happens after the programme ends?
Participants will join Faith in Democracy’s international community of Faith-Based Democracy Defenders (FBDDs); a growing network across countries and traditions. This includes access to selected closed-door exchanges and events, ongoing peer learning, shared resources, and opportunities to connect internationally.
I’m interested but unsure—can I talk to someone first?
Yes. If you have questions about fit, language, security, or practicalities, we encourage you to reach out before applying: info@faithdemocracy.org